Illinois Football Extends Offer to Four-Star WR Milan Parris: What It Could Mean
Illinois has made a move to recruit four-star wide receiver Milan Parris, who is currently committed to Iowa State. The 6-foot-5, 205-pound senior from Walsh Jesuit High School (Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio) received the offer on Thursday, sparking speculation about the Illini’s chances.
After landing Nasir Rankin earlier in May, Illinois head coach Bret Bielema and his staff have shifted focus to Parris, aiming to land another elite wide receiver. However, Parris is committed to Iowa State, making it a tricky recruitment. While it’s not uncommon for recruits to switch schools, and Bielema has flipped players before, Parris would be a major catch if Illinois can pull it off.
Iowa State, coming off an 11-win season and a bowl victory over Miami, is a strong program, which makes a flip unlikely. However, Illinois has been selective in pursuing players already committed elsewhere, so Bielema’s persistence could mean there’s a chance we don’t see coming. If they miss, they’ll at least go down swinging.
Milan Parris Scouting Report
Ranked 21st in the nation and 8th in Ohio by 247Sports, Parris is a highly coveted recruit. He has an impressive 20 scholarship offers, but he has been committed to Iowa State since January. Despite his commitment, Illinois and other programs like Kentucky, Michigan State, and Wisconsin continue to pursue him.
Parris runs a 4.43 40-yard dash and boasts a 6-foot-8 wingspan. His combination of size and speed makes him a standout, and his after-the-catch ability is a major draw for programs. Parris is a constant threat to break big plays, which is why Illinois is so keen to recruit him.
What It Means for Illinois
If Parris is indeed firmly committed to Iowa State, it’s a long shot for Illinois to flip him. However, the Illini should aim to get him on campus soon, preferably while still undefeated, to have a shot. If Illinois could sway him, Parris’ skill set is comparable to former Illini receiver Pat Bryant, who was drafted in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. It’s unrealistic to expect Parris to immediately match Bryant’s production, but any contribution close to that would be a huge win for Illinois.
The Illini have had their share of standout wide receivers over the years, and with Parris potentially on the horizon, Illinois could see another one join their ranks—if he decommits from Iowa State and takes his talents to Champaign.
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